Chasing the lazy Sunday vibe? Here’s 5 laid back things to do on the Whitsundays mainland

Let me paint you a picture. You’ve had some amazing jam packed days out on the water exploring the Whitsunday islands and Great Barrier Reef, falling into bed exhausted and elated each night. But it’s catching up to you. The rental car hasn’t been touched in a week. You’re looking for a slower paced day on land. Don’t worry, I have got you covered! Here are 5 local tips on how to chase that lazy Sunday vibe, while still getting to see more of the beautiful Whitsundays (and it doesn’t even have to be Sunday!). Choose just one or combine a few if the Whitsundays adventure bug has bitten you good.

Coral Beach is a favourite of locals, tucked away in the residential area of Shute Harbour. An easy 1.1km track takes you through lush bushland with beautiful views of South Molle and Whitsunday Island, and out to a small pristine beach made entirely of coral! Take a swim at this unique spot, followed by a picnic basket full of yummy wares from Peach and Pear Catering. Hampers start from $25 p/p with free delivery!

I’m not going to lie, of everything on this list, this is where you’ll usually find me starting most of my Sundays. The food and Campos Coffee is top notch, the people who work there are lovely, it’s dog friendly, and have I mentioned it overlooks charming Cannonvale Beach? Drop in for breakfast and then take a dip in the swimming enclosure across the road, or meander along the Airlie boardwalk which starts at the cafe and ends at Airlie Beach Lagoon. Fat Frog Beach Café is open from 7am weekdays and 8am Saturday and Sunday. Try menu favourite the “Green Frog”, it’s delicious.

Proserpine to Airlie Beach is a pretty drive about 25 minutes through cane fields that screams for a windows down, perfect song playing moment. On the way is a couple of great spots to check out; The Kingfisher Circuit section of the larger Conway Circuit at Brandy Creek, which offers an easy walk shaded by the forest canopy, and home to lots of native animals, and Cedar Creek Falls a little further along the main road, which is the best waterfall in the area (rain permitting). Pair these with the sleepy little gem of Proserpine and you’ve got a nice day planned! Established in the 1890’s, Proserpine is the agricultural hub of our area, home to the Proserpine Sugar Mill. With historical buildings and small town charm you’ll find some cute photo ops and a delicious lunch at the Hotel Metropole, one of the longest standing pubs in the town and open 7 days.

I don’t get why more people don’t go to Bowen because honestly you’re missing out if you don’t. Bowen has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Whitsunday region, and best of all you often get them all to yourself! Horseshoe Bay is the standout, where the water is crystal clear for great snorkelling straight off the beach, but if you’re just after a splash around to cool off there are several other great beaches to choose from like Queens Beach and Grays Bay. Top this little day trip off with a cold drink and a tasty lunch at the recently renovated Grand View Hotel, which has been around since 1851. The Grand View Hotel is open for lunch 7 days a week from 12pm.

Anchor Bar is known amongst the locals as a great spot to have a drink and watch the sunset. Pull up a spot and watch the yachts moored out in Airlie bay bob along as the sun sets behind them with a nice cold beer in hand or one of their signature cocktails (oh man, is it 5:30 yet?). Later, take a relaxed walk down to Port of Airlie hotspot Denman Cellars, which boasts the largest range of beers in town and a beautiful view to boot! Grab a spot outside if you can and take a look at their mouth-watering menu, you will not be disappointed.